This is one of the reasons I dive with doubles even on recreational dives where possible. If this situation had happened to me, I simply would have shut down my left post. Then, I could have proceeded to surface in a normal fashion.
If diving a single tank, the diver can always shut down the tank, turning it on to breathe. This will pretty much eliminate the need to head directly to the surface.
No matter what setup you are using, the diver should check gauges frequently to have a fairly close idea of how much gas is remaining. Then, the diver can make a more informed decision about what to do from there.
I could not agree more. Carry spare air. Just a little insurance. But i also appreciate the comments here. I know myself that training will always take over when an emergency situation happens. You just go on autopilot. Im a little thick headed so I have to keep practicing and practicing until it becomes second nature.
Be safe all . Its cooler in houston today and feels great, Make it a great day.
I really was heading north, I just went the long way around.